Minimum wage rises from Sunday

With the new financial year fast approaching, the federal government is reminding low-paid workers they will get a pay rise from July 1.

Is your accountant worth keeping?

Max Newnham The new financial year is a good chance to review your business, including the work of your accountant.

Reduce the juice: how to beat the carbon tax

David Wilson The carbon tax could reportedly drive power bills up by 20 per cent. Here's 10 tips to help slash energy costs in your small business.

Warranty company on the brink, say ex-staff

Jane Lee and Max Mason A struggling company that provided extended warranties for Myer and Big W is under the regulators' spotlight, amid claims from former staff that it has failed to pay wages since the first week of...

How to calculate your tax rate

Max Newnham When you run a small business you can potentially be subject to countless state and federal taxes.

FINANCE

Build your brand without breaking the bank

Christopher Niesche Six low-cost tips from marketing experts on how to raise your business’ profile.

Greens in bid to boost small business support

Clancy Yeates Small business owners would receive extra support worth up to $300 million a year under a new proposal from the Greens.

Pay tax at the lowest possible rate

Max Newnham We're opening a cafe in a few weeks' time. How can we maximise our tax claims?

'You're Fired!': Bouris sacks own staff

Michael Evans The Mark Bouris-chaired technology company TZ has slashed its workforce as part of cost cuts to avoid a cash crunch.

How taxing is a second job?

Max Newnham If you're continuing to work full-time while starting a new business, beware of the tax implications.

Warning on carbon tax rorts

Adam Cooper The ACCC is warning small businesses to justify prices if they use the carbon tax to rort customers.

FAMILY BUSINESS

Pluses and minuses to working with family

Transparency is important in avoiding feuds in a family-run business, says Family Business Australia chief Philippa Taylor.

MONEY

Cash splash: 12 ways to beat the taxman

Annette Sampson Another financial year done and dusted. Well, almost. With a little more than four weeks to go until June 30, it is high time to get in some last-minute tax planning.

$17 pay rise for country's lowest paid

Clay Lucas The national minimum wage for Australia's 1.4 million lowest paid workers should be raised by $17.10 a week, Fair Work Australia has said.

Banks must pass on rate cut: ACCI

A leading business group has urged the big banks to pass on a cut in the official interest rate to their borrowers in full.

Special Report

How to negotiate a wheel deal

Steering your fleet towards the right policy can be tricky, but here's some advice to smooth the way, writes Marcella Bidinost.

Special Report

A case of accidental debt

Workers' compensation insurance: if you aren't safe, you'll be sorry, writes Alexandra Cain.

FINANCE

Dealing with banks in times of crisis

Tony Featherstone Picture this: a family-owned retailer has a $40-million bank loan. The founder has had a good relationship with his banker for years, watched footy with him, and met the bank’s CEO at functions.

BUSINESS MAXIMS

Tax tactics: maximise your return

Max Newnham Tax return time is approaching, so make sure you don't land yourself with a large bill.